Iraq Relations With Iran: A Shifting Sands Of Geopolitics

In the complex landscape of Middle Eastern geopolitics, the relationship between Iran and Iraq presents a compelling study of shifts and turns. Historically, the two nations have transitioned from an intense rivalry to a surprising collaboration. This intricate dynamic, deeply rooted in shared borders, religious ties, and tumultuous history, continues to shape regional stability and global power plays. Understanding the nuances of Iraq relations with Iran is crucial for comprehending the broader Middle East.

The diplomatic and foreign relations between these two sovereign states, known as Iran–Iraq relations (Persian: روابط ایران و عراق, romanized: Ravâbete Irân va Arâq; Arabic: العلاقات العراقية الإيرانية, romanized: Al-ilaqat Al-Iraqiya Al-Iraniya), are a testament to how rapidly alliances can pivot and how deeply historical grievances can be intertwined with contemporary pragmatism. From devastating wars to strategic partnerships, their bond is a microcosm of the region's ever-evolving power dynamics.

Table of Contents

• A Legacy of Rivalry: The Iran-Iraq War and its Aftermath
• The Post-Saddam Era: Iran's Ascendant Influence in Iraq
• Building Political Clout: Iran's Deep Roots in Iraqi Politics
• The Strategic Corridor: Solidifying Influence Through Militias
• Consolidating Hegemony: The ISIS Crisis and Iranian Dominance
• The US-Iraq-Iran Dilemma: A Clash of Ideologies
• Current Diplomatic Overtures and Shifting Regional Alliances
• Iraq's Quest for Autonomy: Moving Out of Iran's Orbit?

A Legacy of Rivalry: The Iran-Iraq War and its Aftermath

The historical trajectory of Iraq relations with Iran is scarred by periods of intense animosity, none more devastating than the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988). This protracted conflict, initiated by Saddam Hussein's Iraq, was fueled by territorial disputes, ideological differences following the Iranian Revolution, and a desire for regional hegemony. The war, which claimed an estimated one million lives, fundamentally reshaped the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Prior to the war, Iraq had undergone significant internal political changes. Successive military coups in Iraq led to the takeover by the Ba’ath Party in 1968, and Saddam Hussein’s gradual ascent to power through the party’s ranks. His regime, secular and pan-Arabist, stood in stark contrast to the newly established Islamic Republic of Iran after the 1979 revolution. This ideological chasm deepened the existing tensions. It's important to note the international context of this period: During the crisis, the US cut all diplomatic ties with Iran, and formal diplomatic relations have never been restored. This created a vacuum that Saddam Hussein, with implicit and explicit backing from various international powers, including the US, sought to exploit. While the US was backing Iraq in its war, this support was primarily aimed at containing revolutionary Iran, not necessarily endorsing Saddam's ambitions. The death of the Shah in July 1980 in Cairo, just as the war began, further solidified the new Iranian regime and its revolutionary fervor, setting the stage for a bitter, drawn-out conflict. The war's conclusion left both nations economically devastated and politically fractured, yet it also laid the groundwork for future, albeit complex, interactions.

The Post-Saddam Era: Iran's Ascendant Influence in Iraq

The fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime in 2003 marked a seismic shift in Iraq relations with Iran. With the removal of their long-standing adversary, Iran seized the opportunity to deepen its involvement in Iraqi politics, security, and economy. This engagement was not merely opportunistic; it was a strategic move to secure its western flank and project power across the region. Iran has been deeply involved in Iraqi politics since the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime in 2003. This involvement manifested through various channels, leveraging historical ties, religious affinity (both nations have large Shia populations), and extensive networks built over decades. The political vacuum and subsequent instability in Iraq provided fertile ground for Tehran to cultivate influence. This was a stark reversal from the previous decades of animosity, showcasing the profound transformation in their bilateral ties. The initial years post-2003 saw Iran consolidating its position, gradually becoming an indispensable, albeit controversial, player in Iraq's reconstruction and political landscape.

Building Political Clout: Iran's Deep Roots in Iraqi Politics

One of the most significant aspects of Iran's post-2003 strategy has been its systematic cultivation of political influence within Iraq. This has been achieved by fostering relationships with a wide array of Iraqi political actors and factions. More than a dozen Iraqi political parties have ties to Iran, which funds and trains many of them. This network extends across the political spectrum, from established parties to emerging movements, ensuring Iran a voice and leverage in virtually every aspect of Iraqi governance.

Funding and Training Networks

The financial and logistical support provided by Iran has been instrumental in shaping the political landscape. By funding and training various Iraqi political entities, Iran has effectively created a web of alliances that serve its strategic interests. This deep penetration into Iraq's political fabric means that Iran has built considerable political clout in Iraq since the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime. This influence is not always overt but often operates through back channels and ideological alignment, making it resilient and pervasive. The wide sphere of influence could be expanding, raising domestic tensions and alarming U.S. policymakers who view this as a challenge to their own vision for a democratic and stable Iraq.

The Strategic Corridor: Solidifying Influence Through Militias

Beyond political parties, Iran's influence in Iraq is perhaps most visibly demonstrated through its support for various Shia militias. These paramilitary groups, often operating outside the direct control of the Iraqi state, have played a crucial role in Iran's regional strategy. Iran’s support for Shia militias in Iraq enabled it to solidify its influence in the country and allowed Tehran to create a strategic corridor starting from Iran, passing through Iraq and Syria, and reaching Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The Land Bridge to the Mediterranean

This "land bridge" or "strategic corridor" is a cornerstone of Iran's regional power projection. It facilitates the movement of arms, personnel, and resources, enabling Tehran to support its allies and proxies across the Levant. This corridor is not merely a logistical route; it represents a profound geopolitical achievement for Iran, allowing it to exert influence directly on the borders of Israel and to project power into the Mediterranean. The existence and consolidation of this corridor have significantly altered the regional balance of power, making Iraq relations with Iran a critical factor in understanding the broader Middle Eastern security architecture. The Islamic Republic has used these advantages to permeate Iraq’s political, security, economic, and religious spheres, making its presence felt at every level of Iraqi society.

Consolidating Hegemony: The ISIS Crisis and Iranian Dominance

The relationship between Iraq and Iran is often described as complex and unequal. In fact, Iran exerts hegemonic control over Iraq. This assertion, while strong, is supported by the trajectory of their interactions, particularly during moments of profound crisis for Iraq. This hegemony was consolidated through a number of developments related to Iraq’s existential conflict with the Islamic State (ISIS), from 2014 until 2017.

ISIS as a Catalyst for Iranian Power

When the fall of Mosul to the jihadi group occurred in 2014, and much of the Iraqi army collapsed, Iraq faced an existential threat. In this moment of extreme vulnerability, Iran was among the first to offer substantial military and logistical support, primarily through its Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its allied Shia militias. While the international coalition, led by the US, also played a crucial role, Iran's immediate and on-the-ground response allowed it to further entrench its influence. This period saw the formalization and empowerment of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), many of which are heavily influenced by or directly linked to Iran. The fight against ISIS thus became a critical juncture where Iran solidified its position as a dominant external actor in Iraq, deepening the complexity of Iraq relations with Iran. This intervention cemented Iran’s role as an indispensable security partner, further intertwining Iraqi sovereignty with Iranian strategic interests.

The US-Iraq-Iran Dilemma: A Clash of Ideologies

The deep Iranian influence in Iraq presents a significant dilemma for the United States. There is a situation where Iraq’s political leaders are ideologically affiliated with Iran while the US has sought to shape Iraq in its own image with free elections and a liberal political system. This fundamental divergence in visions for Iraq creates a constant tug-of-war, with Baghdad often caught in the middle. The US spent trillions of dollars and thousands of lives to remove Saddam Hussein and establish a democratic Iraq. Yet, the outcome has been an Iraq where Iranian influence is arguably stronger than ever. This geopolitical paradox highlights the complexities of nation-building and foreign intervention. Washington's efforts to promote a liberal political system and free elections often clash with the deeply entrenched sectarian and ideological loyalties that Iran has skillfully exploited. The ongoing tension between these two external powers – the US and Iran – continues to shape Iraq's internal politics and its foreign policy decisions, making Iraq relations with Iran a focal point of regional and international diplomacy. The US views Iran's expanding sphere of influence as a direct threat to its strategic interests and regional stability, leading to persistent efforts to counter Iranian proxies and influence within Iraq.

Current Diplomatic Overtures and Shifting Regional Alliances

Despite the deep-seated historical rivalries and ongoing geopolitical competition, there are also signs of pragmatic cooperation and diplomatic engagement between Iran and Iraq. In a recent phone conversation, President Pezeshkian of Iran highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with Iraq, emphasizing the nation as a friendly and brotherly neighbor. This dialogue comes at a pivotal moment as both countries seek to enhance cooperation and promote regional welfare. This rhetoric of brotherhood and cooperation, while perhaps masking underlying power dynamics, reflects a shared interest in regional stability and economic development. Strengthening Iran and Iraq relations can have profound implications for trade, energy, and security cooperation. Furthermore, the broader regional landscape is also undergoing significant shifts. Arab states that once opposed Iran now condemn Israel’s June 13 strikes, reflecting shifting alliances and fears of regional escalation. This re-alignment, driven by shared concerns over Israeli actions and a desire for de-escalation, could potentially create new avenues for cooperation between Iran and Iraq, as both seek to navigate a volatile Middle East. The emphasis on promoting regional welfare suggests a potential pivot towards more constructive engagement, even if the power imbalance remains.

Iraq's Quest for Autonomy: Moving Out of Iran's Orbit?

While Iran's influence in Iraq is undeniable, there are increasing signs that many Iraqi leaders are attempting to assert greater autonomy and move out of Iran’s orbit. This desire for independence is fueled by a growing sense of Iraqi nationalism, a recognition of the economic and political costs of being too closely aligned with any single external power, and a yearning for greater sovereignty. Last year, the axis rapidly slid from the seeming height of its power into terminal decline. This statement, while perhaps a strong generalization, reflects a growing sentiment within Iraq that the country needs to diversify its alliances and reduce its reliance on Iran. Iraqi leaders are increasingly engaging with other regional and international partners, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and European nations, in an effort to balance external influences. This delicate balancing act is crucial for Iraq's long-term stability and its ability to chart its own course. The future of Iraq relations with Iran will largely depend on Iraq's success in achieving this strategic autonomy, without alienating its powerful neighbor. This quest for balance will be a defining feature of Iraqi foreign policy in the coming years, as Baghdad seeks to navigate its complex regional environment while prioritizing its own national interests.

Conclusion

The relationship between Iran and Iraq is a multifaceted tapestry woven with threads of shared history, religious ties, bitter conflict, and pragmatic cooperation. From the devastating Iran-Iraq War to Iran's deep involvement in post-Saddam Iraq, their interactions have consistently shaped the geopolitical contours of the Middle East. Iran's strategic penetration into Iraq's political, security, economic, and religious spheres, solidified during the ISIS crisis, has established a significant, arguably hegemonic, influence. This has created a complex dynamic with the United States, which seeks a democratic Iraq but often finds its vision challenged by Iran's ideological and political sway. However, the narrative is not static. Recent diplomatic overtures, coupled with Iraq's increasing efforts to assert its sovereignty and diversify its alliances, suggest a potential shift in the trajectory of Iraq relations with Iran. While Iran remains a formidable force in Iraq, the growing desire for autonomy among Iraqi leaders could lead to a more balanced and independent foreign policy for Baghdad. Understanding these intricate dynamics is essential for anyone seeking to comprehend the future of the Middle East. What are your thoughts on the evolving relationship between these two pivotal nations? Do you believe Iraq can successfully navigate out of Iran's orbit, or is their interdependence too deeply entrenched? Share your perspectives in the comments below, and consider exploring our other articles on Middle Eastern geopolitics for more in-depth analysis.